Definitions

emphasize

[em-fuh-sahyz] / ˈɛm fəˌsaɪz /

VERB

stress, give priority to

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accentuate affirm assert highlight indicate maintain point out reiterate repeat underline underscore

STRONG

accent articulate charge dramatize enlarge enunciate headline hit impress italicize mark pinpoint press pronounce punctuate spotlight weight

WEAK

bear down dwell on insist on labor the point limelight make a point make clear make emphatic make much of play up point up put accent on rub in

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deny

STRONG

lose mumble

WEAK

depreciate forget ignore play down understate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Emphasize the word “I” and his question is about worthiness due to his lack of obvious qualifications for the monumental leadership position being offered.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026

Emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious behavior to a trusted adult.

From Salon • Oct. 21, 2024

Emphasize to your siblings that at some point, you may not be able to care for your mother, and that you all need some plan for if or when that happens.

From Slate • Feb. 10, 2022

Emphasize that Floyd’s killing remains front and center in the minds of rally participants.

From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021

Emphasize the careful washing of the dishes, etc., as on the previous day.

From Ontario Teachers' Manuals: Household Science in Rural Schools by Ontario. Ministry of Education

Vocabulary lists containing emphasize

The SAT: Language of the Test, List 2

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The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

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Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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